Vast expanse of verdant meadows, dense deodar forest, and the views of the snow-covered Kailash, Khajjiar is a nature lover’s heaven with some incredible tourist places in and around it. Also known as the Gulmarg of Himachal, it is also a commencing point for Chamba, Dalhousie, and Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary treks. There has many places to visit in Khajjiar that are perfect for a day-long exploration trip.

Here’s a list of places that can be visited in and around Khajjiar on a laidback vacation in the mountains of Himachal.

The most beautiful places to visit in Khajjiar in a day

Spread over sprawling 30.69 sq. km. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Khajjiar. Situated between Dalhousie and Khajjiar Lake, this wildlife reserve is popular for nature walks and hikes. The wildlife sanctuary comprises of trees like Blue Pine, Green Oak, and Rhododendron, and one can spot barking goral, Himalayan black marten, langur, jackal, bear, and leopard within the sanctuary. There are small tributaries of River Ravi, that makes this place look scenic and spectacular.

Opening hours: 7:00 am to 6: 00 pm

Long Weekend Trips Starting @ Rs 3299/-

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2. Khajjiar Lake – Mini Switzerland of India

Encircled by lush green deodar forests, Khajjiar Lake is a natural splendour, located at an elevation of 1920 mtrs. Among the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, it is ideal for reinvigoration of mind and body. The major attraction of the place is the island that floats, which is actually a cluster of grass growing on the lake’s surface. Khajjiar Lake is mostly visited by locals and tourists for day picnics, paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding. On a sunny day, one can also enjoy the mesmerizing views of Mount Kailash from the lake.

3. Kailash Villages – Explore the quaint and scenic villages

Mostly resting in the middle of lush mountains and dense deodar forests, the laidback and picturesque villages are some of the best places to visit in Khajjiar, to experience the country life. Rota, Ladi etc are some of the most wonderful villages offering clear views of the Mount Kailash, green slopes, and snow-capped peaks you’ll want to capture in your camera. These villages are around Khajjiar Ground and are popular for their apple orchards.

If you’re willing to stay back to explore the villages of Khajjiar, then there are homestays where you can comfortably stay with the locals, eat authentic Himachal food, and experience the beauty of the slow life of the mountains.

4. Panch Pandav Tree – Known for interesting mythological tales

Within the thick deodar forests surrounding the Khajjiar Lake, Panch Pandav Tree is one of the uniquest places to see in Khajjiar. This tree has 6 shoots and locals believe that the same represent 5 pandavas and Draupadi. Panch Pandav tree is located near a rest house, that leads to remote Khajjiar villages. Just about a kilometer from Khajjiar towards Dalhousie, is a giant deodar tree with about 15 shoots of similar height. This one if known as ‘Mother Tree’ in the region and around.

5. Khajji Nag Temple – The most vintage temple of Himachal Pradesh

Dedicated to Khaji Nag or Lord of Serpents, this is one of the oldest temples of Himachal Pradesh. Khaji Nag temple was built in 12th century and the wood carvings reflect Hindu-Mughal architecture style and pattern. Resting on the bank of Khajjiar Lake, this temple boasts of idols of Shiva, Hidimba, and images of Pandava and Kaurava. The age-old practice of goat sacrifice is still practiced here in the temple.

Some incredibly awesome places to visit near Khajjiar

6. Dainkund Peak, Rakhed (16 km)

Dainkund Peak is among the most beautiful and scenic places to visit near Khajjiar. It’s the highest peak in Dalhousie, which means other high snow-capped peaks are clearly visible on a sunny day. It turns into a white heaven in winter and the lush green meadows welcome tourists during summer. Anyone looking for some great places to visit in Dalhousie must not skip this.

7. Panchpula, Chatryara (22 km)

Surrounded by thick pine and deodar trees, the gorgeous Panchpula is one of the best places to visit near Khajjiar. One can find many other beautiful streams and waterfalls inside the pine forests. It’s just about 3 km from the main city of Dalhousie.

8. Subhash Baoli, Dalhousie (32 km)

Just 1 km from Dalhousie and about 32 km from Khajjiar, Subhash Baoli is a beautiful spot amongst tall pine trees. It is named after the most famous freedom fighter, Subhash Chandra Bose. One can witness the picturesque and majestic views of snow-covered Himalayas and other mountains ranges.

Long Weekend Trips Starting @ Rs 3299/-

Take a trip to spend the upcoming long weekend with your buddies.✓ Stay at 4 star rating hotels with local sightseeing, meals and transfers.✓Travel in AC coach round trip (from Delhi).✓All InclusiveDeal– Camping, Jeep Safari & Trekking as per itinerary✓ Sign up NOW to celebrate the long weekend out of town!